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Millions of Americans traveling Sunday

AAA estimates the majority of people taking a vacation for Independence Day hit the road. More than 40 million Americans drove to their destination.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Independence Day travel came to an end for many people on Sunday. 

AAA estimates a record-breaking 49 million Americans made plans to get away this year.

Overall travel volume was expected to rise more than 4% compared to last year, with nearly 2 million more people planning vacations over the holiday weekend.

Sunday evening, things were looking pretty good going through the Charlotte metro area for those headed back home.

AAA estimates the majority of people taking a vacation for Independence Day hit the road. More than 40 million Americans -- the most on record for the holiday -- drove to their destination.

The good news for drivers dreading the ride home: last Wednesday was expected to be the busiest day for those hitting the road, with drivers facing delays as much as four times the normal commute.

NBC Charlotte spoke with people heading home on the road Sunday. Traveler Alexis Padgett said the roads weren't as bad as she predicted.

"It actually hasn't been that bad," Padgett said. "I expected a lot more traffic but we haven't really had any standstill traffic or anything like that, so it's a lot better than you would expect it to be today."

AAA believes the lower gas prices are contributing to the number of people on the road. The national average is 19 cents less compared to this time last year.

The lines at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport were long Sunday morning. Air travel comes in second this holiday weekend, with nearly 4 million people flying to their destinations.

For those heading home, make sure you allow extra time to check bags and get through security when flying out.

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